As we all know, Georgia RB Todd Gurley was suspended indefinitely last Thursday for allegedly receiving benefits for multiple autographs. The Heisman Trophy front runner did not make the trip to Columbia, MO in the team’s 34-0 rout of Missouri.
However, it has been reported by Macon Telegraph’s Seth Emerson and others that he would be practicing with the team before the key matchup at Arkansas. However, Richt repeatedly declines to answer questions on Gurley’s eligibility for future games by saying, “My answer is I don’t know.”
The Bulldogs certainly gave a bulk of the duties to true freshman RB Nick Chubb, and he will have to continue to carry the load until Gurley returns. There should be some help returning, as junior RB Keith Marshall is reported to return after suffering ankle and knee injuries in the game vs. Troy a few weeks back.
Georgia fans, coaches and players are anxiously awaiting the verdict of the NCAA investigation, as they want the star player back as soon as possible. Gurley’s spark and potential for big plays is certainly missed in his absence, as he leads the SEC in rushing yards with 773.
Gurley’s “Heisman Hurdle” vs. Tennessee. Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Hours after the suspension of Gurley was announced, reports started flying about the length of the suspension. Chip Towers of the AJC reported that Gurley is “likely done for the year”. The NCAA bylaws however state that any earnings over $1000 only result in suspension for 30% of the season, and the player cannot be stripped of his eligibility. Therefore, Bulldog fans can continue to cling to a bit of hope that he may return. The results of the NCAA investigation should be revealed in the coming days.
The team must continue to battle for a SEC East title in his absence. The Dawgs are in the midst of a long road trip as they face Arkansas this Saturday in a crucial conference matchup (10/18 4pm, SECN). The schedule is packed with top tier opponents as they have an off week before the game in Jacksonville against Florida, then a potential division deciding game against a surprisingly very good Kentucky team in Lexington the following week. All of these games should be very challenging for Georgia as they must persevere and stay focused to get out of the trip unscathed to have a shot to get to Atlanta.
brandonsudge 